An independent journal about the Gannett Co. and the news industry's digital transition

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

USAT | A top graphics expert, but a short tenure?

When Jeff Goertzen quit the Denver Post in November to become director of graphics for Gannett Digital and USA Today, he was hailed as one of the world’s leading infographic experts by Mario Garcia, the globally influential newspaper designer.

Now, I'm told, Goertzen has suddenly left the job.

[Updated at 11:47 a.m. ET. Feb. 16] On his Facebook page, Goertzen posted the following this morning:

Goertzen

"As many of you may have heard by now, I no longer am employed by USA Today/Gannett digital. In this industry that's changing constantly, the challenge to keep ahead of the game and implement strategies that are conducive to the ultimate goal can be daunting. Decisions and job descriptions can change on a dime. And so did the directives of my position and employment at USA Today as art director. The decision, as explained to me, had nothing to do with my talent or abilities. There was no wrong doing."

He continues: "Unfortunately, this is how business is done now at USA Today. The short time I spent there was, by far, the best moment in my career. And I have no regrets. It gave me awareness of how much more I was able to achieve and grow in my profession. That I did not fit in their plans in the end is unfortunate, but that's business. I wish USA Today and Gannett Digital all the best and I thank the Lord for the opportunities he as blessed me with."

Lots of gossip internally about his departure. they summoned him monday night when he was at the company health facility. he was just about to move his family from denver. the whole saga is very strange and sordid.

Banikarim strikes again. It is her way or out the door as Payne, Hunke, Ellwood and the rest have learned the hard way. It gives one pause to wonder what 'goods' she has on Martore to assume such unchallenged misguided "leadership."

Jim says: "Proceed with caution; this is a free-for-all comment zone. I try to correct or clarify incorrect information. But I can't catch everything. Please keep your posts focused on Gannett and media-related subjects. Note that I occasionally review comments in advance, to reject inappropriate ones. And I ignore hostile posters, and recommend you do, too."